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This test consists of 5 short answer questions, 10 short essay questions, and 1 (of 3) essay topics.

Short Answer Questions

1. How is Zeus described by the poet in The Hymn to Zeus?

2. In The Hymn to Aphrodite, what job does Anchises have?

3. Which one of the following is not included by the poet in the list of people that the Muses favor?

4. What does the poet ask to be blessed with at the conclusion of the final Hymn to Athena?

5. How is Hephaistos described in The Hymn to Hephaistos?

Short Essay Questions

1. In what way does Hestia's power or presence compare to that of the other gods and goddesses?

2. What happens when Aphrodite meets Anchises?

3. Who assists the poet in the beginning of The Hymn to the Moon, and what is the moon's name?

4. What metaphor is used to describe the sun in The Hymn to the Sun?

5. How are Persephone and Demeter reunited and what are the conditions of Persephone's return?

6. What is the explanation of the seasons according to the myths?

7. How does Anchises respond to Aphrodite's true identity and what is the result of their affair?

8. What powers are described in The Hymn to Poseidon?

9. What is the reason given in The Hymn to Aphrodite for Aphrodite's attraction to mortal men?

10. What metaphor is used to describe the moon in The Hymn to the Moon?

Essay Topics

Write an essay for ONE of the following topics:

Essay Topic 1

Chronicle the development of Ancient Greek lyrical poetry, the development of the Greek alphabet, how stories might have been created before it, and the different styles used to distinguish the epic poems from other writings. Include an explanation of the forms used in Homer's The Iliad and The Odyssey as a comparison to the writing in other ages and how Homer's work is used to support the theory of the existence of Homeric bards.

Essay Topic 2

Dionysus is given three hymns in The Homeric Hymns.

1) Describe Dionysus's birth and how he is different than some of the other gods.

2) Explain the events surrounding his capture and how he frees himself.

3) Describe the fate of the crew after Dionysus is free.

4) Using Dionysus's story as an example, analyze the idea of transformation vs. destruction as it is included in Greek mythology.

Essay Topic 3

The adventures of Herakles are presented in The Hymn to Herakles.

1) Describe the origin of Herakles, and the recurring theme that it reflects.

2) Explain why Herakles is known for his strength by including examples of the feats in The Hymn to Herakles.

3) Describe how Herakles proves himself and the way he is ultimately rewarded.

(see the answer keys)

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